Taizō-in, My Favorite Zen Garden 🌿

In Kyoto, the Jodo, Shingon, and Tendai sects are quite popular, but Zen Buddhism is truly remarkable. Not only is its philosophy progressive, but its aesthetics are also ahead of its time—worshipping nature instead of idols. 🌇🌿 There aren't many Zen temples in Kyoto, except for Myoshin-ji, where Taizō-in is located. There's also the "revisionist Zen" Rinzai sect, like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and others (many of the sub-temples within Myoshin-ji are also of the Rinzai tradition). This is a uniquely Japanese interpretation of Zen that has evolved over time. 🌇🌿 If you visit Kyoto, you'll notice that the garden aesthetics of Zen temples far surpass those of other sects. 🌇 Zen teaches "no reliance on words, no worship of idols," but the beauty of Taizō-in is worth decoding in person. 🌇🌿Note: This photo was taken the day before yesterday. 🔍 Who is Taizō-in? A perfect blend of history and Zen. #Kyoto 🌇🌿